Traditional Soft Pretzels with Sweet Beer Cheese 🥨🍺

There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a warm, golden-brown soft pretzel. Pair it with a creamy, slightly sweet beer cheese dip, and you've got the ultimate snack experience! Whether for game day, a cozy night in, or just because—these homemade soft pretzels will become a household favorite.

Ingredients 🛒

For the Pretzels:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ⅓ cup baking soda (for boiling water bath)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse salt, for topping

For the Sweet Beer Cheese Dip:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• ¾ cup beer (lager or ale works best)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions 👨‍🍳

1. Activate the Yeast

Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, melted butter, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.

3. Shape the Pretzels

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope, then twist into a pretzel shape. (Or get creative—knots, sticks, or bites work too!)

4. Give Them a Baking Soda Bath

Boil water and add baking soda. Drop pretzels in for 20-30 seconds each—this gives them their iconic chew and deep color.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with coarse salt, and bake at 425°F (218°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Making the Sweet Beer Cheese Dip 🍺🧀

1. Create a Roux

Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.

2. Add Liquids

Slowly whisk in milk and beer, stirring continuously.

3. Melt the Cheese

Lower heat and add cheddar, gouda, honey, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth. Season with salt & pepper to taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

✔ Chewy, golden perfection 🥨 ✔ Easy homemade beer cheese dip 🍺 ✔ Great for parties, snacks, or just because! ✔ Customizable—add cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist!

Pro Tips 🔥

• Use bread flour for an even chewier texture.
• Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it’s key for that classic pretzel chew.
• For a spicier dip, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Pair with honey mustard or caramel sauce for more dipping options.

Final Thoughts

These Traditional Soft Pretzels with Sweet Beer Cheese will have you skipping the store-bought versions forever. Soft, chewy, slightly salty pretzels with a creamy, sweet-savory beer cheese dip—what’s not to love? Try them today and let me know what you think! 🍽️🔥